Manufacturing Operations Associate

A growing metal fabrication and machining company is seeking a motivated, mechanically inclined individual to join our sheet metal manufacturing team as a Manufacturing Operations Associate. This is a versatile, hands-on role that plays a key part in keeping our production floor running smoothly. The ideal candidate will be comfortable wearing multiple hats, taking on responsibilities across machine operation, shipping and receiving, quality control, and material handling. Prior experience in a manufacturing environment is helpful but not required — we are willing to train the right person.

Education and Experience

Required 

• Highschool diploma or equivalent 
• Valid driver’s license 
• Forklift Operator’s Certificate or willingness to obtain upon hire 
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to work with hand and power tools 
• Ability to read and follow work orders, packing slips, and basic technical documents.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality. 

Preferred

• Experience in a sheet metal or manufacturing environment
• Water jet machine operation experience
• Prior shipping and receiving experience 
• Basic quality control or inspection experience 

Physical Requirements:

• Significant lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; frequent climbing and balancing; frequent stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling; and significant fine finger dexterity.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. 
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time. 

Machine Operation 

• Operate sheet metal fabrication machinery in accordance with production schedules and safety guidelines.
• Set up and run machines efficiently while maintaining quality standards. 
• Perform basic machine maintenance and report any equipment issues to the supervisor. 

Water Jet Operation (Preferred)

• Assist with or operate water jet cutting experience as needed.
• Follow programming instructions and inspect finished cuts for accuracy. 

Shipping & Receiving 

• Receive incoming shipments, verify accuracy against purchase orders, and document accordingly.
• Prepare outgoing shipments including packaging, labeling, and documentation. 
• Maintain an organized and clean shipping and receiving area. 
• Coordinate with vendors, carriers, and internal teams to ensure timely delivery and pickup.

Forklift & Truck Operation 

• Operate forklifts and company trucks to move materials within the facility and to/from job sites or vendors as needed. 
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections in accordance with safety requirements. 
• Maintain a valid driver's license and forklift certification. 

Quality Control 

• Perform basic quality checks on incoming and outgoing materials and finished products.
• Document and report any defects, discrepancies, or non-conforming materials to the appropriate team member. 
• Support continuous improvement efforts on the production floor.  

General Operations 

• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment at all times. 
• Follow all company safety policies and OSHA guidelines. 
• Assist other team members and departments as needed. 

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local law.